Are you constantly switching between glasses — one pair for distance, another for reading? Maybe you’ve been relying on bifocals for years, or you’ve noticed that you’re starting to hold books, menus, or your phone at arm’s length just to see the text clearly.

If that sounds familiar, it might be time to consider a more flexible solution: bifocal or multifocal contact lenses.

Why Do Patients Choose Bifocal or Multifocal Contacts?

There’s a common perception that as your vision changes with age, your only options are bifocal glasses or reading glasses. But thanks to advancements in contact lens technology, many people now have a better alternative — especially those with active lifestyles who want the freedom of glasses-free vision.

These lenses are designed to help people with presbyopia — a natural, age-related condition that reduces your ability to focus on close-up objects. Presbyopia typically starts to affect people in their 40s or 50s and progresses gradually.

There are two main types of contact lenses for presbyopia:

• Bifocal Contact Lenses

These lenses contain two distinct prescriptions in each lens — one for distance and one for near vision — much like traditional bifocal glasses. A segmented bifocal design places the reading prescription in the lower part of the lens and the distance vision in the upper portion, mimicking the design of bifocal glasses.

• Multifocal Contact Lenses

Multifocal lenses offer a more blended visual experience. They contain multiple prescriptions across the lens, allowing your eye to transition naturally between near, intermediate, and far distances.

There are two main design styles:

• Simultaneous Vision: Your eye views both near and far zones at the same time, and your brain automatically focuses on the appropriate one.
• Alternating (or Translating) Vision: Similar to bifocal glasses, these lenses move with your eye’s natural motion, allowing you to shift focus as needed.

Materials & Wear Options

Bifocal and multifocal contacts are available in a variety of materials:

• Soft lenses (comfortable and easy to adapt to)
• Rigid gas permeable lenses (offer sharper vision for some prescriptions)
• Hybrid lenses (combine a gas permeable center with a soft outer ring for comfort and clarity)

Many of these lenses are available in daily disposable options, offering convenience and reducing the risk of infection — a great option for those new to contact lenses or who prefer low-maintenance wear.

If you’re tired of juggling glasses or feel like reading glasses are taking over your life, you’re not alone. Many patients who thought they’d never be able to wear contacts have found success — and freedom — with bifocal and multifocal lenses.

At Bissell Eye Care, our doctors will assess your lifestyle, visual needs, and eye health to determine the best option for you. We’ll guide you through the fitting process, help you adjust, and make sure you’re seeing clearly and comfortably.

Modern Lenses

Modern contact lenses have come a long way — and so has your chance to enjoy clear vision at every distance without the hassle of multiple glasses. Whether you’re golfing, working on the computer, or reading bedtime stories to your grandchildren, there’s likely a contact lens solution that fits your needs.

Call us today at 724-443-6767 or 724-226-0444 to schedule a consultation and find out if bifocal or multifocal contact lenses are the right choice for your lifestyle.

Your vision matters — and so does your freedom.

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.